WHAT? Mars in the Painted Hall

WHERE? Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk, Greenwich, London SE10 9NN

WHEN? Now until 20th January 2025 

WHY GO?  For a close encounter with planet Mars.  Installation artist Luke Jerram has done it again. He has created an out-of-this-world floating ‘planet’ sited in the most glorious of settings, the historic Painted Hall. 

 It’s a match made in heaven. The spectacular artwork Mars is displayed in all its full glory to the celestial sounds of music from award winning composer Dan Jones. 

Jerram’s hugely successful earlier installation, Gaia, which details the Earth’s surface, has done the rounds of famous cathedrals across the country along with his even earlier Museum of the Moon. Now visitors can gaze up at Mars as it rotates serenely above the cherubic ceilings of this divine hall, nicknamed Britain's Sistine Chapel. 

Known as the ‘red planet’ since it is red and dusty and has a warm shiny glow, Mars is half the size of earth but twice as big as the moon, but is there life on Mars?

Who knows, but scientists report that there is a huge lake of liquid water at the planet’s south pole which suggests it has the ingredients needed for life.  Who wants to be beamed up first?

IN THE KNOW For savvy Insta lovers, Monday morning is heaven sent for selfies. There’s an early morning social media slot to help fans get the perfect shot! 

Check details online along with the Hall’s festive programme of happenings under planet Mars, from morning yoga sessions to evening dinner dates serenaded by jazz vocalists.